individual getting a drone ready to fly

Autonomous Systems and Robotics (M.S.)

  1. Home
  2. Academics
  3. Academic Programs
  4. Autonomous Systems and Robotics (M.S.)
Request Info Visit Apply

Illinois Tech’s Master of Science in Autonomous Systems and Robotics will provide students a proactive experience through cutting-edge technologies and research. This degree program is designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to develop innovative solutions required by this emerging global industry.

Self-driving cars, unmanned air vehicles, robots, and a range of other autonomous and semi-autonomous systems are becoming an integral part of contemporary life. The foundation of our department’s autonomous systems and robotics coursework is supplemented by forward-thinking engineering course options in which graduate students can turn theory into practice.

Our graduates will be prepared for successful careers in industry or further study in a doctoral program.

Learn more about the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering’s faculty research expertise.

Program Overview

The M.S. in Autonomous Systems and Robotics focuses on physical systems and the internal algorithms by which they are controlled and monitored for real-time operations, environmental awareness, and decision-making. Graduates of this program will be leaders in the innovation and development of self-guided platforms needing limited intervention, including vehicles, robots, and collaborative physical systems.

Career Opportunities

Our M.S. in Autonomous Systems and Robotics degree program will prepare you for the following careers with applications to autonomous ground vehicles (self-driving cars and trucks), industrial robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and spacecraft:

  • Control systems engineer
  • Autonomous systems engineer
  • Robotics engineer
  • Interface developer
  • Navigation and guidance systems engineer
Disclaimer for prospective students, please read.
The information provided is sourced from a third party, Lightcast, and is provided here for informational and educational purposes only. Please be advised that the inclusion of the Lightcast resource on this website does not imply endorsement by Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), nor is it a guarantee of the accuracy of this information. Illinois Tech makes no representation, warranty or guarantee, express or implied, that the information presented herein is reflective of the outcomes you can expect if you enroll in or graduate from an Illinois Tech program. Illinois Tech expressly disclaims any liability regarding Lightcast, or in connection with any actual or potential employment opportunity stemming from information on this site and you hereby irrevocably waive any claim(s) against the Illinois Tech for the same. Your use of this web page is an acknowledgement of your understanding and acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth herein. You are encouraged to conduct your own thorough research into job opportunities and outcomes in your field of study.

Program requirements are outlined in the graduate course bulletin. 

View Details (M.S.)

TOEFL: according to university minimum standards

B.S. degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, industrial engineering, or mathematics

Featured Faculty

Matthew Spenko

Matthew Spenko

Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Co-Pi, CARNATIONS
Nelson Nelson

Nelson Rosa

Assistant Professor; Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering Department
Boris Pervan

Boris S. Pervan

Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Director, CARNATIONS
Naia Lum
Future Driven

As a 2024 Brooke Owens Fellow, Naia Lum will be an intern at Draper Laboratory.

Naia Lum (ME, M.S. ASR 4th Year)
Chloé Benz
Software Engineer, Qualcomm

Chloé Benz says Illinois Tech directly prepared her for a job developing cutting-edge autonomous driving technology.

Chloé Benz (M.S. Autonomous Systems and Robotics ’22)